Virulence: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a scientific or medical context to describe the severity or harmfulness of a disease or pathogen. It indicates how aggressive and damaging a microorganism is.

• The virulence of the flu virus this season has led to a higher number of hospitalizations

Often used in public health and epidemiology to describe how easily a disease can spread from person to person. It focuses on the contagiousness rather than the severity.

• The infectiousness of measles makes it crucial to vaccinate children to prevent outbreaks

Commonly used in microbiology and medical fields to describe the ability of an organism to cause disease. It emphasizes the quality of being pathogenic.

• The pathogenicity of this new bacterial strain is being studied to develop effective treatments

Typically used in medical or biological contexts to describe the degree of harmfulness of a disease or pathogen. Often has a negative connotation.

• The virulence of the virus has increased over time.
• Scientists are studying the virulence of the new strain.

Often used to describe the seriousness or extent of something bad or unpleasant, such as weather, conditions, or diseases. Generally carries a negative connotation.

• The severity of the injury required immediate medical attention.
• The severity of the punishment seemed excessive.

Used in general contexts to describe the degree or strength of something. It can be positive or negative depending on the situation.

• The intensity of the storm took everyone by surprise.
• Her intensity during the workout was impressive.